Louisiana House Bill HB344

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/16
• Refer: 3/2/16
• Refer: 3/14/16

Caption

Creates the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Student Advisory Board

Impact

The establishment of the Student Advisory Board marks a significant step in enhancing student engagement within the educational governance framework in Louisiana. The board is positioned to provide valuable insights and feedback effectively to BESE and the state superintendent regarding student concerns and educational reforms. By including a student perspective in discussions about education policies, the initiative is likely to influence decisions that directly affect the student population, potentially leading to more responsive and relevant educational strategies.

Summary

House Bill 344 proposes the creation of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Student Advisory Board in Louisiana. This new board aims to serve as a liaison between elementary and secondary education students and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). The legislation outlines the purpose and duties of the advisory board, ensuring that it can effectively represent student voices on educational issues within the state. The advisory board is composed of eight student members, each appointed by an elected BESE member from their election district, and each term lasts one year.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB344 generally reflect a positive sentiment towards reinforcing student input in educational matters. Supporters view the bill as a progressive move to empower students, providing them with a formal mechanism to express their views and influence educational policies. However, there may be some skepticism regarding the actual impact of the advisory board's recommendations, especially concerning the weight they may carry in BESE's decision-making processes. The overall tone remains optimistic about fostering a culture of collaboration between students and educational authorities.

Contention

While the bill presents a fresh approach to include student voices, there could be potential contentions regarding the board's effectiveness and its members' selectivity criteria. The requirement for students to maintain a high GPA of 3.5 could limit representation to academically successful individuals, potentially sidelining the views of a broader student demographic. This raises questions about the inclusivity of the advisory board and whether it can genuinely reflect the diverse experiences of all students across Louisiana's educational landscape.